As a host and as a guest I know that in many cases a reasonable cost of comfortable accommodation is a deal breaker. I had gusts from Europe and the far east who advised me that for a family of 4 - they could not afford staying in NYC. While staying in NJ they generated some business locally, as well as visiting and generating business in the big apple. A family needs 2 hotel rooms something that a middle class family cannot afford in NYC! I as a business man, would not participate in certain shows or events, nationwide, as accommodation costs during these events are sky rocketing. in certain cases accommodation is the major portion of the event costs! Airbnb gives me a reasonable solution in such cases. I heard the claim that private rooms or apartments are not at same standards and safeties as Hotels. If the authorities approved it for us to live in - they are good enough for guests. All hosts should report the income in their tax returns. There is no difference in not reporting hosting income - as well as not reporting any other income! That is not a reason to eliminate hosting. Creating rules against private entrepreneurship means depressing the economy.